Matariki Stars

 This morning we celebrated Matariki and the start of our service was led by some awesome young people from our parish. What amazing leaders and role models they all were, all spoke so beautifully and confidently in both English and Te Reo Māori.

It isn't easy to be a leader, or to be one of God's people. Even Jesus had a tough time. We heard a story about Jesus, and how when he tried to teach in his own hometown, no one would listen. He had to leave and go to other towns.

People don't always like us... and that is ok. Our job is to be ourselves... to be the person God created us to be. God wants us to use our gifts and talents and live as one of God's people, sharing God's love with others.

Check out this video of this morning's activities, which involved a very complicated Matariki star craft, courtesy of Carol... and don't they look incredible?!

https://youtu.be/7WMjEUZV_qc

Matariki stars

 Check out the latest video from MaTCH (Media and Tech at Chapel Street)...

https://youtu.be/7PVUuKE1XeE

Our Awesome Kids made yarn star-themed art to celebrate Matariki... 

It's incredible when we look up at the stars and realise that our awesome God created the heavens... and also created each one of us! And God loves us, and cares for us deeply.

We were reminded that God sees beyond what people look like on the outside, and knows us deep inside. God knows the special skills we each have. We are all chosen by God and God has special plans for each of us. The really awesome part is that we never have to do anything alone... God is always right there with us, loving us always and no matter what.

Matariki

This morning we celebrated Matariki, with music and art. Our wonderful ukulele group, AbsolUKE, led the congregation in the Matariki Macarena (complete with actions) and we created some Star Jars and Starry Night paintings.

Check out the video from MatCH. Thanks to Izak and George for the filming and production.

https://youtu.be/r1IgevK-G6s

Here is the prayer, which was read so beautifully by Bella:

Loving God,
You are an amazing God, and the stars remind us of how awesome you are. Thank you for loving us, for being our friend and never giving up on us.
Thank you for the special people in our lives, who have guided us, shaped us and loved us. Those who have encouraged us along the way and helped us to become the people we are today. We thank you God for what they have given to us - wisdom, guidance and love.
Help us to shine Your light and Your love into the world.
Amen


Make sure you check out the marvelous Matariki art in the Chapel Gallery!